Mornington Island Airport (ONG)

Mornington Island Airport (IATA: ONG, ICAO: YMTI) is a small regional airfield that serves as the primary and essential air link for the remote Aboriginal community of Gununa on Mornington Island, located in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Queensland. The airport's principal role is not tourism but providing a lifeline to the mainland, facilitating access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and specialist supplies, as well as enabling personal travel for residents. It is a critical piece of infrastructure that significantly reduces the isolation of the island community.

Operated by the Mornington Shire Council, the aerodrome has been a long-standing fixture for the island, evolving from a basic airstrip to a regulated facility. Its history is tied to the development of the community and the need for reliable transport to overcome the challenges of its remote location. The airport is situated on the outskirts of Gununa, the island's main settlement. Given the small size of the community, the airport is easily accessible, typically just a short drive or even a walk from most parts of the township. There is no large-scale public transport, and visitors generally rely on pre-arranged transfers organised by their host organisation or accommodation.

All flights operating from Mornington Island Airport are domestic regional services. The primary carrier is Regional Express (Rex), which provides regular passenger transport connecting the island to mainland centres like Mount Isa, Burketown, Doomadgee, and Normanton. These routes often operate as "milk runs," with the aircraft making multiple stops. Passenger volume is modest and consists mainly of local residents, government and agency staff, and essential service providers. The airport does not handle international traffic.

The facilities at Mornington Island Airport are basic and functional, reflecting its role and size. The terminal is a small, simple building containing a check-in counter, a modest waiting area, and public restrooms. Travelers should not expect amenities such as airport lounges, retail shops, or food and beverage outlets. The infrastructure is designed purely for the efficient processing of passengers and baggage for a small number of daily flights.

For those traveling through the airport, it is advisable to arrive approximately 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Due to the lack of on-site services, passengers should bring their own water and snacks. It is crucial for non-residents to note that Mornington Island is a restricted-access area, and a permit from the Mornington Shire Council is required before booking travel to the island. All ground transportation from the airport must be arranged in advance, as taxis or ride-sharing services are not available.